Rwanda, often hailed as one of global leaders in environmental conservation, it made history in 2008 by becoming one of the first countries to ban non-biodegradable plastic bags. This bold move was followed by an extension of the ban to single-use plastics in 2019, further solidifying the nation’s commitment to sustainability. However, despite these progressive policies, plastic pollution continues to plague Rwanda’s waterways, particularly Nyabarongo and Akagera rivers. These rivers, vital to the country’s ecosystem and economy, are under siege from plastic waste, threatening biodiversity, water quality, agriculture, and public health.
Rwanda generates between 0.4 to 0.7 kilograms of waste per person daily, amounting to an annual total of 232,870 tones. While waste collection has been privatized, with municipalities contracting private companies to collect household waste, the system is far from perfect. Collected waste is often transported to uncontrolled landfills and open dump sites, where informal sorting activities take place to recover recyclable materials. Despite these efforts, only about 10% of waste is recycled, with the rest ending up in rivers, landfills, or burned in open air.
In Cyuve Sector, near Bukinanyana waste recycling center, where waste from Musanze City home to 476,522 residents, is dumped, rivers Mukungwa, Kigombe, and Mpenge flow into Nyabarongo River. There are no effective measures to prevent plastic contaminated waste from reaching these rivers. However, residents confirm that they still use the water despite its contamination, , “We use this water for various purposes, including drinking. In the past, some people who drank it fell ill, but nowadays, we continue to use it without any issues.”Dativa Mukeshimana, a resident of Musanze City, said
The ban on plastic bags and single-use plastics has been a significant step forward, but enforcement remains a challenge. Illegal dumping, inadequate waste collection in rural areas, and the influx of imported goods packaged in plastic continue to undermine Rwanda’s efforts to curb plastic pollution.
Nyabarongo and akagera Rivers, The Lifelines Under Threats
Akagera River, another key tributary of the Nile, faces similar challenges. Rapid urbanization in cities like Nyamata, driven by infrastructure development such as the new international airport, has led to increased waste generation. Without proper waste management systems in place, much of this waste ends up in Akagera River. Plastic pollution has dire consequences for aquatic ecosystems. As Phocas Ukwigize, a Groundwater Monitoring Officer at the Rwanda Water Resources Board, explained, “When waste, especially plastics, accumulates in water bodies, it leads to the growth of algae and water hyacinths, which reduce oxygen levels in the water. As a result, aquatic life may die or decrease significantly.”
A major tributary of the Nile, is one of Rwanda’s most critical water bodies. However, it is also one of the most polluted. Uncollected waste from urban areas, combined with soil erosion from rural regions, finds its way into Nyabarongo, turning it into a conduit for pollution.
Macro plastics, such as bottles and bags, are visible along the riverbanks, while micro plastics tiny particles that are harder to detect infiltrate the water, posing a threat to aquatic life and human health. The river’s role as a carrier of pollution extends beyond Rwanda’s borders, as it transports waste downstream into the Nile Basin, affecting neighboring countries.
Fishermen like Mugabo Jean de Dieu have witnessed the decline in fish populations firsthand. “When waste accumulates, especially after heavy rainfall, fish disappear and move to other parts of Nyabarongo River, The pollution disrupts the natural habitat, forcing fish to migrate and reducing the catch for local fishermen” he witnessed
Water Quality and Public Health are in crisis and need saving
The contamination of Rwanda’s rivers has far-reaching implications for public health. Kayirangwa Claudette, an Assistant Lecturer in Water Resources and Environmental Management at the University of Rwanda, highlights the high levels of pollution in Nyabugogo and Nyabarongo wetlands.
For communities living along the rivers, the polluted water is often their only source for drinking, cooking, and irrigation. Mucyo Mustafa, who works in the sugarcane fields near Nyabarongo River, admits, “We drink and cook with this water. Going to fetch clean water would be a waste of time. We have no choice but to use Nyabarongo’s water.”
The use of contaminated water in agriculture has severe consequences. Paul Hitimana, a farm machinery engineer, warns, “When contaminated water is used in agriculture, the yield decreases. The crop can also absorb the pollutants and retain them in its stem, which can have short-term or long-term effects on humans and livestock. in fact The absorption of microplastics and chemicals by crops not only reduces agricultural productivity but also poses health risks to consumers.”
Rwandan government has taken several steps to address plastic pollution. Dr. Valentine Uwamariya, the Minister of Environment, emphasizes the country’s commitment to sustainable development. “Rwanda is fully committed to building a future where environmental protection and economic growth go hand in hand, Our green growth agenda prioritizes sustainable development, ensuring a thriving economy that doesn’t come at the cost of our precious natural resources.”
To sustain these efforts, the government has introduced targeted fees and fines to discourage destructive activities. , “The law states that no product manufactured in Rwanda is allowed to be packaged in plastic. For imported goods, we have introduced a tax of 0.2% of the product’s value if it is packaged in plastic. This tax will help fund plastic waste management.” Prudence Sebahizi, the Minister of Trade and Industry, explained
Is the community aware of the issue?
Public awareness campaigns play a crucial role in Rwanda’s fight against plastic pollution. The government organizes monthly clean-up events, known as Umuganda, to encourage community participation in waste management. These events not only help clean up the environment but also raise awareness about the importance of proper waste disposal. Juvenal Mukurarinda, a Senior Officer for Sustainable Waste Management at The Global Green Growth Institute, stresses the need for broader public awareness. “There is a need for campaigns and policies that establish guidelines for environmental protection, When plastics reach the soil, plants can absorb them, leading to long-term health risks.” he insisted
The private sector is also stepping up to address the plastic crisis. Companies like SKOL Brewery have introduced returnable glass bottles for mineral water, reducing the reliance on plastic packaging. Additionally, Rwanda has established a waste-to-energy facility in Bugesera to manage e-waste and promote recycling.
Challenges persist, and the road ahead is uncertain
Despite these efforts, significant challenges remain. The lack of sanitary landfills and low waste collection rates, especially in rural areas, continue to hinder progress. Informal recycling, while helpful, is not sufficient to address the scale of the problem. Strengthening waste management infrastructure and improving data collection are essential to reducing plastic pollution. Rwanda’s plastic pollution problem is not isolated. Nyabarongo and Akagera rivers are part of the Nile Basin, meaning that pollution in these rivers affects neighboring countries. International cooperation is crucial to addressing the issue on a regional scale.
The fight against plastic pollution requires a multi-faceted approach. While Rwanda has made significant strides, more needs to be done to enforce regulations, improve waste management, and raise public awareness. As Dr. Uwamariya aptly puts it, “Our green growth agenda is not just about protecting the environment; it’s about securing a sustainable future for generations to come.”
Rwanda’s battle against plastic pollution is a testament to the nation’s resilience and commitment to sustainability. However, the hidden cost of plastic pollution in its waterways serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that remain. From the Nyabarongo to the Akagera, the rivers that sustain life are under threat, and the time to act is now. By strengthening policies, engaging communities, and fostering international cooperation, Rwanda can continue to lead the way in environmental conservation, ensuring a cleaner, healthier future for all.
About The Author
